My little ray of sunshine! Today you are seven…Lucky 7! What a fantastic age this is.

I remember feeling intimidated by age seven because it sounded old and entering into the “too cool” years. Thankfully, I was so wrong because I can see where this is going to be one of the most magical ages of childhood.

You can take care of yourself, read a bit, talk about current events, and yet you still need me to hold your hand when you are nervous. I have a feeling this is going to be a great year, and I look forward to treasuring each moment with you.

As I type this, I can hear you singing hymns in your room {when you’re supposed to be sleeping}. You are always singing and I adore that about you. On any given day, you can also be found catching frogs or bugs, picking up trash to “help the earth,” creating art, or playing baby dolls with your best friends on our front porch.

You love soccer, ghost stories, and collecting rocks. While you enjoy electronics, you’re more likely to be found outside enjoying nature.

You are the epitome of cool for a 7-year-old…in my humble opinion 😉

Your name means fair warrior, and it’s such a fitting description of the amazing girl you have become. You are a beauty on the outside, but what’s even more stunning is your heart and brain.

The past year, elementary school has changed you. You are more confident and more willing to step out of your comfort zone. You are well-liked by your peers and I’m constantly amazed with what a sweet kid you are. When kids have picked on you, you’ve let it go when it wasn’t worth it, and stood your ground when it made sense. You’ve stood up for your sister too, and for that, I am SO grateful. Never hesitate to stand up for others.

But the biggest characteristic that has taken off this year is your ability to LISTEN. Being a quieter kid, you tend to soak up every.single.thing. — and call daddy and I out if we’re discussing something you’re not supposed to hear. You’ve really stepped up your game and are asking some deep and interesting questions about everything from the tooth fairy and Santa to why some people are homeless.

We usually lie in your bed at night and you ask daddy or I 100 questions about things you’ve observed during the day. At times, I don’t feel like I have a great answer, but it gives me more joy than you can imagine to hear how the wheels turn in your brain.

Some nights I wish I could talk to you all night like a couple of girlfriends. Alas, bed time consistency and the “I’m your mother, not your friend,” mantra plays in my mind. Soon enough, sweetie. I hope you’ll always be down for our chats, and you’ll always know I am here should you have any questions.

From you, I have learned to stop and enjoy nature, have more understanding with different personalities, and that sometimes it’s just best to be quiet and observe. I am a better person for having you.

Happy Birthday to my sweetie pie, Kinny-Ree. Wishing you a million days ahead that reflect the possibilities you have in your heart. Keep dreaming big, catching frogs, and holding on to your contagious passion for life and all things in it.

If there was a phrase to sum up your second year, that would be the one, Mr. Independent.

This past year has been full of beautiful moments I will always treasure, but I’d be remiss to not mention all of your toddler shenanigans, too. We had our first visit to the ER {skin glue to the forehead} and were met with daily demands for putting on your own sunscreen and shoes, which are always on the wrong feet. Thankfully, we somehow survived potty training, despite many accidents along the way.

What I’ve learned about you: You sure are a guy that makes his own rules. I appreciate your independence, but let’s slow down a touch, OK?

Today you are THREE.

Your enthusiasm for life and constant smile bring joy to everyone you encounter.

Some days you say “I want to be big,” and part of my heart shouts “NO! Stop growing!” The other part is thrilled to watch you grow into a sweet young man, just like your daddy. You share his intelligence and kind eyes, and I assure you that in due time you will be able to use your own set of tools just like him {a big dream of yours}. Don’t rush through life, bubs.

The trait people comment on the most about you is how happy you are. Daddy loves to say you wake-up pooping rainbows. It’s so true! You make us smile from sun-up to sun-down and there isn’t a whole lot that brings you down. You enjoy people and constantly want to play with others, often calling a kid you just met at the park your best friend. Please keep your sweet nature about you in the years ahead.

Your feet are the same size as your 5-year-old sister’s and you are a pretty stocky kid. People often comment on that as well. One day, an older man said you are too old to be picked up by me. Don’t believe the lies. I won’t stop picking you up until you stop asking. With that said, you are getting heavy, so cut me some slack at times 😉 People love to mention you will be a football player one day. You be you, dude.

You pay attention to details and say I’m pretty when I put on a dress or change my hairstyle. You are very observant for such a little guy. Daddy says you have me wrapped around your finger. Let’s be honest – we both know it’s true. Keep building others up because it will build you up, too.

Your vocabulary has grown leaps and bounds this year, and we are constantly amazed by the things you say and know, including all types of trucks. You use hilarious words like “actually,” and can be quite a deep thinker just before bedtime, which isn’t always convenient, but you know I will always listen and engage you. You LOVE talking. Make sure to listen as you grow-up, too.

Routine is your friend and you often tell us when you’re ready to go to bed. You refuse to nap for me most of the time, but love your “man naps” with daddy. You started climbing out of your crib at 2.5 so you’re in a twin bed now. We still read, rock and sing every night, and now you join me in song, singing “Twinkle, twinkle little stars.” I tuck you in and your little hands go behind your head and you smile as I leave the room. I leave with a smile in my own heart. You’re very easy to love.

As much as I miss the days that have passed, I am loving the stage we are in now too. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again — you were the missing piece to our family. Life is complete with you.

Keep letting your bright light shine in the year ahead and play hard and stay sweet.

Can we raise a glass of orange juice to making it through this year together? It sure has been a wild ride filled with more emotions than you and I ever knew possible. But we’re getting there, child. You, me, and daddy. We’re finding our way through the wires of your beautiful brain, and figuring out just what we need to do to help you thrive.

Today you are five.

This year has been full of so many appointments, and for that, I’m sorry. Evaluations, a diagnoses we’re still making sense of, weekly trips to occupational therapy and speech. Tear-filled school drop-offs and post-school rages that left me questioning myself. Some days I ask God why He entrusted you into my care. Other days, it’s evident: I was made to be your mom and you were made to be my little rock star.

Thankfully, there has been so many incredibly joyful moments, too.

Your ability to make others laugh is remarkable. We love hearing you ask which words rhyme or asking us for “tomato chips” {potato} and alligator {Gatorade}. You get sarcasm, and everyone loves hearing your daily “I gotta tell you something…” stories, which always tell of some shenanigans. The adults that take the time to get to know you find you hilarious. For being such a little peanut, you sure have a big personality.

Keep the laughs coming, girlfriend. It’s going to get you through a lot of tough times.

Only you would pass out on the couch in winter gear and hillbilly teeth!

Another stand-out quality that has really jumped out this year is your ability to never shy away from hard work — whether it’s sitting down to practice your letters or helping me feed the kitty or empty the dishwasher. Sometimes I pay you $1 to help me with larger tasks, other times you do it before I even ask. I appreciate your help SO much, and you know those winks when I say you’re my best helper are true 😉

You’ve wanted to be a police officer since you could talk, and I can already see why that would be an amazing profession for you. You love helping others and thrive with structure. Shoot for the stars, little lady. I have no doubt you will rock whatever path you choose in life.

On that note — you love anything physical, whether it’s bike riding, wrestling or obstacle courses. This summer you’ve discovered karate and it has done wonders for your growth and confidence. I beam with pride each time you take a stripe test and stand in front of your class to show your moves like it’s no big deal. You don’t care what anyone thinks, and I pray daily you keep that amazing quality. {*clap*clap* “You rock”}

I also have so many fond memories of you dancing this year. For being a gal who hates loud noises, you LOVE heavy metal and rock n’ roll, just like your dad. I’ll never forget channel surfing and seeing you bop around happily to Marilyn Manson’s Beautiful People. Shoot, as long as the lyrics are clean, you are free to rock out to whatever you darn well please. We support you. {I’m still looking for a heavy metal yoga class for us!}

One of my favorite sweet things about you is the insane amount of affection you crave. Your monkey hugs, with your legs wrapped around me, give me life. When I ask how hugs make you feel, you’ll say it feels like little hearts walking all over your body. You have a way with putting things in such a simple and thoughtful way we adore.

Your siblings are your world. You fight with them often, but at the end of the day, you love them with all your being, and I know you would do anything to defend them.

Four has been tough in many ways, but so full of love and laughter. Let’s keep up the great teamwork we are finding together. I have no doubt it’s going to be a great year ahead as you enter full day “big school” as a begindergartner.

You truly are an orchid child. Your environment is fragile and sensitive at times, but given the right mix, you thrive. Please be patient as we learn how to care for you in the best way possible.

Bloom where you are planted, my love, and we’ll do our best to give you optimal conditions.

Aging doesn’t have a ton of perks, but gaining wisdom is definitely one of them. So today, on my 33rd birthday, I’m writing a post to myself, because let’s be real: As we age, our birthday is truly the ONLY day where we can be just a little selfish, ya know? Today I’m going to eat all the food and do all the things I want.

I like to use these life lessons as a reminder of how far I’ve come during my time on this earth. This has been a fantastic year full of a lot of personal growth. I also had a few humbling experiences that reminded me that not only is life short, but with enough will power, you truly can make anything happen.

You don’t know the answer unless you ask the question. Embrace your curious side and ask the lady with the accent which country she is from so it doesn’t make you crazy not knowing. Curiosity is a great opportunity to learn something new.

If you want something to get done, ask the busiest person you know. Clearly they manage time well and will be there in a heartbeat.

Having a variety of people in your life makes you happy. The drinkers/smokers/swearers and the wholesome folks each serve a purpose.

Being empathetic is a gift, not a curse. Being called a snowflake is a compliment; snowflakes are beautiful and unique.

Ignore the inbox more often. You have three kids who deserve your time more than a virtual person.

Show others grace because there has been many times you’ve needed it yourself.

Name brand dental floss is worth every penny. Take care of those teeth!

Not everyone is wired like you and can go go go. Make sure to build in down time for those around you that need it to recharge.

Don’t forget the sun protection during the day and the nightly face cream. You’re not getting any younger. Take care of your skin.

You are much more than just mom. Do one silly thing for yourself daily.

Confidence rocks. Arrogance doesn’t. Walk the line very carefully, especially on social media.

Facebook is not a news source.

Never take social media too seriously. It’s just life’s highlight reel.

Never look at the comments. Controversial news stories are sure to bring out the crazies. Don’t stop and look if you want to feel positive about the human race as a whole.

In this phase of your life, comfortable > cutewhen it comes to clothing. Leggings ARE pants. Cover the booty and rock ’em.

Travel each year. The kids have been bitten with the travel bug like you — let them explore and learn. You will never say “We shouldn’t have taken that trip.”

Comparison truly is the thief of joy. Don’t let your assumptions about others make you question your own life; nobody’s perfect.

Remember the quote “Be the person you needed when you were younger.” Not only for your own kids, but others too.

Push the limits of your comfort zone; that’s when you learn the most about yourself.

Be cheap, but eat, drink, travel, and give to others financially well. These are the areas of life that provide the most joy for you.

Clutter-free home = clutter-free mind. Do what you need to do to survive…But pick-up in the process. You will sleep better at night.

Details matter. Slow down and take your time when possible.

My name is Lauren. Every email that calls me Laura gets deleted. Just sayin’.

Days without solid plans ROCK. Schedule one as often as possible.

Photos are the best “thing” you can own. Keep taking them and working on improving your photography skills.

With that said, Snapchat filters are great at making your face look a little less tired.

Go out of your way to make other women you like feel comfortable and cared for. If we don’t lift each other up, who will?

Repeat after me: Less gifts, more experiences.

If you judge someone, you are totally going to miss out on how cool they may be. And if they aren’t, at least you can say you tried.

You can’t always believe the reviews you read on the internet. Take the time to try a place for yourself if it sounds like something you’d enjoy.

Visit relatives more often. You’re lucky to have them.

Never stop advocating for your kids, mama bear. Just because someone else can’t see your child’s struggles doesn’t mean they aren’t there. Rock on with those instincts of yours.

Keep reading great books; they fill your soul and brain.

Skip appetizers, but never deny dessert when it’s offered. Life is too short.

This is 33. Taking a selfie in my garage in front of my minivan with the best Snapchat filter for hiding tired eyes.

You are my SONshine, my only SONshine, you make me happy when skies are gray. You’ll never know, dear, how much I love you. Please don’t take my SONshine away.

I sing this to you daily, and I can’t help but feel the lyrics with every fiber of my being, with you being both my son and my sunshine.

Today you are TWO.

Two! That means I am inching farther from a baby Miles and closer to the kid version. It pains my heart to watch you grow, though I can’t help but cheer for each new passing stage, too. This parenting thing sure creates a lot of conflicting feelings.

Many people have told me boys affect their mamas in a unique way. I can honestly say I believe it. I have this overwhelming urge to protect you, but also this desire to mold you into a perfect little gentleman. Only time will tell how well I do, but I like to think I am doing an OK job. You are such a polite little toddler!

If there’s one word that describes you, it’s charm, and with that, you’ve brought our family infinite amounts of joy. Some days I can’t help but grab your face and kiss you and tell you how much I love you. What makes me leaky is when you repeat how much you love me back and wrap your arms around my neck and hug me so deliberately. Are you trying to wrap me around your finger? Because it’s working, little buddy.

You absolutely ADORE your friends and sisters and do anything to keep them doting on you. You’ve even won over Karina, which says a lot since she doesn’t always find your shenanigans very comical. You win everyone over pretty quickly with your hilarious personality.

This year has brought a ton of growth. First of all, I guess you’re tall for your age because people comment on it daily {calculations show you likely will be around 6′}. Second, your language has exploded. You talk from sun-up to sun-down. You demand food the moment I get you out of your crib, saying things like “toast sticks” and “awfuls” for waffles.

We laugh, too, because once you have an idea in your brain, it sticks until you get your way. I literally counted you saying “I want to go outside” 50 times one day as I attempted to clean the house. Other notable phrases you are obsessed with include “car ride,” “boat ride” and “quad ride” — you love everything that moves and go especially crazy for trucks of all shapes and sizes. The garbage man is one of your heroes and you go nuts when he drives by. Occasionally he’ll wave and completely make your day.

I think you loved your birthday present from us and the grandparents!

But then there’s the mischief. My apologies — I have sworn in front of you more than I ever did the girls. {Please don’t repeat those words!} You just love to make me crazy when I’m not looking. You love saying “I help,” and manage to destroy various things that cross your path. Your saving grace is that your intentions are pure and when you flash those little dimples I pause and remember you’re only two.

Thankfully, tucking you in at night is a great way to forgive you. You love being on a schedule and know it’s time for bed when 7:30 p.m. rolls around. Our routine is to read three books and sing two songs, but you almost always convince me to do an encore. I sing you your favorite, a German lullaby, and your body folds into an L across my lap, your adorable toes touching my kneecaps, reminding me I won’t be able to hold you like that much longer. As I leave your room, I always say “love you, sleep tight” and you reply “wuv ouu, mama” and I melt into a little puddle in the hallway.

You’re getting to be a handful, but I wouldn’t change it for the world…As my third child, I am letting you get away with far too much, but I know that time is fleeting and this stage won’t last forever. All the pieces of you — the naughty, the hilarious, and the sweet parts…I’ll hang on to until you drift further away from me and mold into your own person.

Daddy and I love you and look forward to your continued growth in the year ahead. Thanks for being our comic relief when times are tense. There’s no doubt you were meant to be a part of our family, and we are thrilled to celebrate two beautiful years with you today.

More times than not, my day begins with you. A warm little nose pressed against mine as I try to sleep off the day’s previous activities. You’re my morning gal who likes to wake-up when the sun rises.

You greet me with a “good morning” and a smile and delightfully take in some screen time while I pry my eyes open and stumble downstairs to make my coffee. After eating breakfast, it’s off to your favorites: LEGOs, Shopkins or coloring. Seeing your imagination and vocabulary take off this year has been amazing.

Today you are FOUR.

Alas, it has been a year. 5 staples in your head after a visit to the ER. Getting glasses. Various evaluations. Weekly trips to OT. A diagnoses of Sensory Processing Disorder. Countless days of meltdowns and tear-filled preschool drop-offs…from both of us.

There’s no denying this year has challenged us. Some days, gut wrenchingly so as I learn what upsets you — from toilets flushing and fireworks to staying at a crowded place longer than I had prepared you for. I wish I could place you in a bubble on those tough days, but I can’t. Please know I will do everything in my power to keep you comfortable as your brain and body learn how to cope.

Thankfully, we’re getting there. We learn from each other each day, and I thank God for blessing me with a little one who has taught me so much about patience, tolerance and acceptance. There is no doubt in my mind — you have made me a better mom this year; a certified grizzly bear who will never stop advocating for her child.

Because how could I not with those sparkly blue eyes?

There has also been copious amounts of joy. You bring this beautiful intensity and determination to everything you set your mind to, and I have mad respect for that.

I ask you to clean, you do it. I ask you to help me make something, and you’re two steps ahead of me. At your core, you’re a busybody, so I do my best to fill your time and keep you occupied. I often joke that you just need a job, and it’s SO true. You love working hard! I have no doubt in my mind that this quality alone will take you far in life.

I’m fairly certain you could survive off of hugs and cuddles, too. I often joked when you were a baby that if you could, you would crawl in my skin. That hasn’t changed, and cuddles often help fix you when your big emotions become too much for you. I will never deny holding you or taking time to lay with you and give you bear hugs. We both need those moments. It’s definitely in these moments where you really open up to me. I never tire of hearing your thoughts and the adorable way you piece your words together. {I adore the way you call Gatorade “alligator” – ha!}

You are so unique too, Kari. You adore super heroes {or in your words “super harios.”} This year’s obsession has been Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and I am pretty sure you wore that Michelangelo hoodie just about every day, even though Leonardo is your true hero. Taking a cue from your crime-fighting ninja pals, you want to be a police officer when you grow-up so you can protect people and fight bad guys. Girl, you can be whatever the heck you want to be. My only wish is for you to stay strong in your convictions and always be true to yourself.

Your best friends are your sister and brother {sometimes} and you fiercely protect them. Thankfully, you’ve begun to ease up on your sassy attitude toward others, and sometimes I feel like I can physically see the toddler shell coming off and a big kid stepping in.

Overall, this year has been a year of emotional and physical growth. I’ve been glad to be along for the ride toward giving you wings; I have no doubt you will continue to soar during the year ahead. I just pray I continue to serve you well and help create positive memories for you to remember forever.

Today you are five. FIVE. Five. I just need to say it a few times because this is a BIG one to me. You’re FIVE!!!

I want to laugh because I have a 5-year-old and I’m not sure how that happened, and I want to cry because I loved age 4 so much and I’m not sure I’m ready to let it go. With that said, I know you are beyond ecstatic since 5 is a whole hand, and that is a big deal in your world. I’ve heard about all your birthday plans for months, so it’s safe to say we’re going to have a blast celebrating.

The biggest change that has occurred during the past year is how much our conversations have evolved. I have such a blast talking to you and learning about what goes on in your mind! You are crazy creative and it makes my heart smile daily. So with that said, here are a few more of my thoughts on you, as a new 5-year-old:

You are smart.

You have this introspective side that makes me realize there are some things in life worth thinking a little harder about. Everything from the clothing you wear, to the friends you choose, come with methodical thoughtfulness. This is definitely a trait you received from your dad since I am very much a ‘dive right in’ kind of gal. I so appreciate learning more about the way he thinks through you.

On the flip side, you ask a LOT of questions and we all know that is a trait from me 😉 As a fellow curious person, I promise to never be annoyed by your questions. I have learned SO much {about bugs, Furbys, plants and more} because of you this year. Honestly, Google probably thinks I am crazy since we look up the oddest questions on my phone. I hope your desire to learn follows you throughout life.

You are beautiful — inside and out.

Sometimes when you’re playing, I find myself admiring you. You are beautiful. I don’t uphold that characteristic often, but the way your thick hair never wants to lay straight, and your big blue eyes lined with thick eyelashes — just wow. You are angelic. But more importantly, your heart is stunning, too. I love how you often say prayers for homeless people and ask how we can help them; even offering up the contents of your piggy bank. Please keep that generous fire alive in your heart.

You are challenging.

Getting you to try new things and meet new people is a source of stress for us. Please be patient as I learn how best to help you grow. It is never my intention to push you, but I will always advocate for you. I once was a shy kid, and I know good things can stem from that, but sitting on the sidelines isn’t always an option. Help me help you in the year ahead, OK? You are capable of wonderful things. Trust I can help guide you and remember you are my first child, so I am learning along with you.

You are full of passion.

Beyond excited for a Hulk shirt; frowning at the sight of a tutu. Smiling when the teacher gives you the blue marker; completely shy when a stranger asks you your name. Laughing as you overturn rocks to look for ropy-polys and crying quietly when someone hurts your feelings. You just know who you are, and you wear your heart on your sleeve. I pray daily you stay strong in your convictions and don’t let others define who you are.

And keep telling jokes, kid. Yours aren’t half bad! Always keep a good sense of humor because it will get you through the tough stuff.

You are my pride and joy.

A large part of my heart wants you to stay little forever. {I will have the image of you as a chubby-cheeked toddler in pigtails engrained in my brain forever.} But, I also am eager to see how you continue to grow, learn, change and be fascinated with life.

From growing you in my belly until now, you have taught me so much about patience and enjoying the small things in life. I have evolved as a person these past five years, and I am better because of you. Spread your wings and continue to soar this year, sweetie.

As I think about what to type in this year’s birthday letter, I can’t help but get tears in my eyes. It sure has been a year, baby girl! So many ups, so many downs. So.Much.Fun.

Today you are three.

If there is one thing I have learned during your second year, it’s to never underestimate you.

When language issues started showing up last year, I went into mama bear mode trying to figure out ways to help you speak better. After months of visits with Early On Michigan, we saw lots of improvement. Turns out really you just needed time. You are constantly surprising us, Kar, and I’m sure this is just foreshadowing on the many surprises you have in store for us.

The biggest surprise this year has been potty training. After having a hard time with your sister, I dragged my feet and let you decide when you were ready. Much to my delight, once you had it in your mind that you wanted to wear underware, you were trained pretty quickly. Hearing you tell everyone how you went potty and seeing the pride beam from your face has filled me with such joy.

With that said, just saying you are just a stubborn toddler doesn’t quite fit. Honestly, you’re a whole ‘nother level of stubborn; you are unshakable. No amount of punishment can make you cave…ever. And believe me, we’ve tried everything.

Daddy has a saying for you: You’re either going to be a total success or a convict. He doesn’t say it to be mean; It’s simply the truth. A buzz term for stubborn kids these days is spirited. I love that term because it completely fits you. It’s not that you are a bad kid…You’re just opinionated. This trait often angers me, but really, you are just.like.me. We just don’t give up until we get our way, right? I cling to the hope that this trait will pay off for you down the road, like it has for me.

Thankfully, you are one of the most loving children ever, too. Just when daddy and I are getting fired up over something you did, you show us this intense love. You grab my face and kiss it, ask for cuddles, beg me to sleep in your bed, tell me you love me and that I’m your best friend. You are full of heart melt moments. I thank God for those times because it’s what gets us through the tough days.

At this moment in time, you are very much your own little person. Following in your sister’s footsteps, you don’t have a speck of pink in your blood. You have zero interest in dolls or princesses, preferring to hoard tiny plastic animals, Thomas the Tank Engine and minions. You can often be found digging in the dirt and collecting pinecones and rocks outside. And you love everything about farm life, especially cows.

You rarely let me dress you these days and often look like a hot mess wearing multi patterns and sweat pants in July, but you’re happy, and could care less what anyone thinks of you. I hope you never lose sight of who you are, which so far, is definitely an original.

Your favorite color is green, which is funny because you love money and will do just about anything for it, including sweeping the floor, cleaning your room and helping with laundry. You are my little helper, and I really appreciate it. We joke we need to get you a job because you are extremely sensory-driven and love busy work. I have no doubt in my mind about you working hard in life. You’ve got it down already, sweetie!

You also have a wicked sense of humor. Daddy and I are convinced you may be a class clown one day since you love the attention you get when you say funny things. You are particularly sassy with your aunt Whitney and listening to the two of you banter is hysterical. I never knew a 3-year-old could have so much sarcasm.

At bedtime, there’s nothing more you love than to read books and have a family hug. You always request I sing the Shrek song {Hallelujah by Rufus Wainwright} followed by Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star. You are a girl of routine and we definitely try our best to stick with what works for you.

It has been an absolute blast watching you grow this year, Kar-Bar. I’m excited to see who you’ll become one day, but for now, I’m doing my best to soak in every stage — even the tough ones.